Latest 'Nods
Nod to the Collar

Want to acknowledge a priest who has made a positive impact on your life?

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Nod to the Collar

Want to acknowledge a priest who has made a positive impact on your life?

SHARE YOUR STORY

Written ‘Nods

Below are ‘Nods to priests who have made a favorable impression in someone’s life. It’s important to let our priests know they are appreciated, respected, and supported.

Want to create your own ‘Nod? Click the “Create a ‘Nod” button to learn how you can submit a video or audio recording, orgininal artwork, or a written statement.

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Fr. Chris Fraser

A ‘Nod to Father Chris Fraser for his dedicated work with the prison ministry, especially in 2023 when he visited Kingman Correctional Facility to offer sacraments for the prisoners. After the challenges of Covid, the prison had not seen a priest on its grounds in three years.  Father Fraser shared how deeply moved he was by the prisoners’ desire to receive the sacraments. While volunteers had faithfully prayed with them, they were unable to provide confession—such an essential sacrament for those seeking repentance and healing.  Father Fraser’s service reminds us that even in the darkest and most isolating places, God never abandons us. Through his ministry, he helps prisoners find their way back to the Lord.

Bishop Douglas Lucia

Bishop Lucia is known for being a true wearer of many hats. He serves the Lord in every way he can, willingly taking on any role asked of him—even when it means carrying multiple responsibilities at once.  I want to recognize Bishop Lucia for preaching the importance of pastoral care and for the attention he gives to the wellbeing of priests. His humility and sacrifice, shown by taking on multiple roles, allows younger priests the time and space to grow before taking on more responsibilities themselves. By his leadership, he demonstrates how important it is for clergy to remain accessible to parishioners. His example of building a strong, inclusive community will ensure the future of the Diocese. Thank you, Bishop Lucia.

-Danielle

Source: https://www.detroitCatholic.com/news/syracuse-bishop-takes-on-extra-duties-as-pastor-of-three-parishes-citing-need

Fr. Rob Adams

I wanted to submit a ‘nod to Fr. Adams because he is my favorite Catholic podcaster. He hosts a podcast called “Ask a Priest” and it is such a great way for people to ask and receive answers to questions they might not feel comfortable asking in person. He has such a light and comforting way of explaining that no question is too silly.  It’s priests like Father Adams who expand their vocation beyond their own parish to reach parishioners who may need more guidance and answers but don’t know who to get it from. A ‘nod to Fr. Adams for providing that!
Staff Submission

Fr. James Sullivan

Father James Sullivan, or more affectionately known as “Father Jim”, is truly a priest for the people. There are countless testimonies of parishioners and non parishioners alike sharing all the ways he has gone above and beyond to provide support or help in any way he can. Whether it is counseling someone who is lost in grief, or making house calls for those in need of sacraments, Father Jim proves how devoted he is to his flock by acting as one of God’s Shepards looking after and guiding us especially when we wander.  To many of us he is more than a priest, he is a friend.
Staff Submission

Fr. Nathan Dail

I came across Father Nathan when I was doom scrolling one night. It was a welcomed vibe change from scary political new and the ever so annoying “Jet Two Holiday!” videos.  I want to give him a ‘Nod for performing more than just his vocational duties and finding creative ways to educate and include as many people as he can reach. To some, priests can seem pretty intimidating or out of reach.  Through his social media, Father Nathan has developed an inclusive and accessible way to bring God and the Holy Spirit into our homes.  He has inspired me to find more easy ways I can incorporate my faith into my daily life. Thank you Father Nathan!
Source: TikTok @idahovocations
Staff Submission

Fr. Antonio Almonte

I want to give a ‘Nod to Father Almonte for all his works at New York Presbyterian Hospital.
As a priest he performs sacraments and celebrates Mass for those unable to go themselves. He participated extensively in the care of Covid patients during the pandemic at the risk of his own health.  Most of the time priests are synonymous with church but Father Almonte proves that they do so much more and are integral in all aspects of our lives and not just Sunday service.  He brings God and the Holy Spirit and the sacraments to those who can’t come to them.  I think it’s an amazing thing for Father Almonte to provide parishioners a way to stay strong in their faith in difficult times and if it weren’t for priests like him, that wouldn’t be possible.
Staff Submission

Fr. Jeffery Ellis

As a fairly new Director of Vocations, Father Ellis has made huge efforts in helping young men and women get involved in vocational training ensuring a strong future for the Diocese.  In a time of chapter elevens and scandal its priests like Father Ellis who are essential in aiding men to hear a calling of their own and discern the Lord’s will for them. It creates a lot of hope in a time that can seem disparaging. Keep up the good work!
Staff Submission

Fr. Allen Hoffa

Beyond his duties as a pastor at his parish, Father Allen is always looking for ways to be more involved in his Diocese. As his role of Priest Team Leader for Lumen Christi, he conducts and overseas various ministries that support priests all across the Diocese of Allentown PA. I also want to highlight his works with the senior high youth ministry. His contagious happy energy and approachable demeanor makes him a favorite among the kids. He’s always up to learn a new trend and participate in tik toks and for that I most certainly think he deserves a ‘Nod.

Source:adlumenchristi.org

Staff Submission

Fr. Christopher Igwe

I was very touched by Father Igwe’s story. I learned he is from Nigeria and his faith journey began when he became an alter-server at the age of nine.  He speaks fondly of growing up in a predominately catholic community and trying on priest robes just to sneak a peak of himself in the mirror.  In a time where it feels like the numbers of the priesthood are dwindling, it is so inspiring to hear that some priests hear the calling at a young age and do everything they can to carry out God’s will for them. I pray that Father Igwe continues to speak on his journey and inspire young boys who are pulled to the church follow in his footsteps.
Staff Submission

Fr. George Grafsky

In 2018 Fr. Grafsky was called on to help by the local Sheriffs Department.  There was an accident and the officer that arrived at the scene was met with two deceased people.  Knowing Father Grafsky due to how closely he worked with the department, the officer called him to help him through the traumatic ordeal. He stayed with the officer at the scene while help arrived providing him both spiritual and literal help. I want to thank Fr. Grafsky for being accessible to the community in more ways than in the church. He is so incredible at guiding people through their grief and keeping their relationship with God strong in times where it can easily waver.
Staff Submission

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